Big Brother Big Sisters looking for Secret Santas

walterpalladNovember 27, 2022

Big Brothers Big Sisters Grey Bruce wants to ensure no child goes without this holiday season and is asking for the community’s help in making it a December to remember for area youths.

The organization is asking members of the public to become a Secret Santa this year for a child in need.

To donate funds visit www.greybruce.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca or send a cheque to Big Brothers Big Sisters Grey Bruce, Harmony Centre, 2nd Floor, 890 4th Ave. E, Owen Sound, N4K 2N7.

If wishing to donate a tangible gift or gift card, members of the public are invited to drop by the Harmony Centre office location or call 519-376-4449.

Any money donated will be used to buy a personalized gift for a local child in need.

This is the second year Big Brothers Big Sisters Grey Bruce has organized the Secret Santa campaign. Last year, community members in the two counties raised $1,000 and made sure every youth in the program had a gift.

This year, Big Brothers Big Sisters is looking to double that total in order to provide gifts for youths on its waitlist, said BBBSGB President Emma Martin.

“It’s a great time for the community and for community support, everyone rallying around,” Martin said.

There are currently 120 area youths matched with a big brother or big sister in schools and in the community, and 70 youths on the organization’s waitlist waiting to be matched. Martin said most of those on the waitlist are young males in Owen Sound.

Martin said volunteers give the most important gift all year round, the gift of time.

“During the pandemic, we lost that time,” Martin said. “There are lots of incredible community members looking for that sense of fulfillment.”

Martin said the organization purchases a wide variety of gifts with the donated money, typically toys, books and the always popular electronics.

“It’s about making sure we’re as inclusive and welcoming as possible,” Martin said. “It’s one of the great things about small communities, we support one another through hard times, tough times, regardless of financial situations.”

There is no minimum or suggested donation amount, but donations over $20 are eligible for a tax receipt. Donations will be accepted until New Year’s Eve.

“It’s a joyous time, it really should be,” Martin said. “We’re supporting mentorship and positive growth and development. The young people are the ones shaping our future.”